Fine Dining to Casual: 14 of the best Sushi Restaurants in Osaka

Sushi Culture in Osaka

Osaka, the second busiest city in Japan after Tokyo, is not only home to sushi restaurants but also features numerous eateries and cafes offering a wide array of cuisines. What is the traditional sushi of Osaka?

The most popular sushi in Japan is known as “Edomae-zushi,” which originated and was developed in Tokyo. It consists of shari (a ball of rice mixed with vinegar) and toppings such as fish. Many sushi restaurants in Osaka offer this Tokyo-style sushi, with some of them listed in the Michelin Guide and considered among the best in Japan. Located on the west side of the mainland of Japan, Osaka is known for incorporating white meat fish such as sea bream freshly caught in the Seto Inland Sea into their sushi.

On the other hand, Osaka boasts a unique style of sushi known as “Oshi-zushi,” crafted by layering ingredients atop rice. This traditional-style sushi has been an integral part of the local culture for generations. Leveraging its excellent preservability, people have long cherished it as a convenient option for sushi to go, packing it in bento boxes and as souvenirs.

8 high-end sushi restaurants in Osaka

We will guide you through high-end sushi restaurants that can be enjoyed with a budget of over 20,000 JPY. These establishments include prestigious Michelin-starred venues, those crowned in the Top 100 Restaurants on Japan’s biggest restaurant review website, and similarly luxurious ones known for their popularity and excellent reputation.

To embark on a unique culinary journey at these luxurious sushi restaurants, advance reservations are usually required, so please be sure to check the availability when making an itinerary for your trip.

Sushi Yuden

The counter table at Sushi Yuden, meticulously crafted from a 160-year-old solid Japanese cypress, invites you to immerse yourself in the unparalleled experience of Edomae (Tokyo-style) sushi, expertly prepared by the owner-chef, Nishimura. Each sushi is carefully crafted to achieve the perfect balance, with ingredients sourced daily from the local market.

Nishimura began his culinary journey as an apprentice at Fukuki Zushi, a prestigious sushi establishment with a tradition spanning over a century. He further honed his hospitality skills at “Sushi Mizuki,” nestled within The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto, before realizing his dream with Sushi Yuden. Whether you're dining solo or with your loved ones, Sushi Yuden envelops you in an ambience of tranquility and refinement.

Sushi Hoshiyama

Awarded one Michelin star for 11 consecutive years, “Sushi Hoshiyama” is the destination for an unforgettable dining experience featuring long-loved, authentic Edomae (Tokyo-style) sushi. Head chef Tadashi Hoshiyama received training for seven years at “Tsukiji Sushi Say Kyoto,” a renowned establishment with a history dating back to 1889. Following this, he spent five years at the one Michelin-starred restaurant “Sushi Matsumoto” in Kyoto before venturing out on his own to open Sushi Hoshiyama in 2012 in his hometown of Osaka. The restaurant was awarded one Michelin star a year after its opening.

At Sushi Hoshiyama, instead of newly innovated dishes, the focus is on traditional, authentic Edomae sushi. You can also enjoy Japanese sake served in a Baccarat antique glass at one of their meticulously cared-for counter seats.

Yasuke

1. Sushi WEST Top 100 Selected Restaurants in 2021,2022 (on famous Japanese gourmet website)

Established in 1938, the highly cherished sushi restaurant Yasuke has been serving locals in Sakai City for three generations. Situated just south of Osaka City, Sakai has thrived as a bustling trading port, enabling Yasuke to procure a diverse range of natural ingredients from all over Japan. With these ingredients, they meticulously prepare sushi using two types of vinegared rice, ensuring the continuation of flavors that have been passed down through generations. Yasuke has earned a spot among the Top 100 Sushi Restaurants on Japan’s largest restaurant review website, in both 2021 and 2022.

In addition, the son of the third-generation owner (Atsuyuki Oga) has chosen to follow in his footsteps, becoming a fourth-generation sushi chef. Across from Yasuke, he opened Sushi Oga, which was subsequently awarded the title of top sushi restaurant in Osaka on famous Japanese gourmet website.

Sushi Dokoro Kurosugi

1. Sushi WEST Top 100 Selected Restaurants in 2021,2022 (on famous Japanese gourmet website)

If you're looking for a sushi restaurant that offers a blend of Edomae (Tokyo-style) sushi and Kansai (Greater Osaka area) sushi, look no further than Sushi Dokoro Kurosugi. Perfectly suited to the culinary preferences of the Kansai region, their vinegared rice is prepared with mild, low-acidic red vinegar, enhancing the flavor of the toppings. The seasonal omakase course includes nigiri (sushi consisting of rice and a topping) and individual dishes crafted with the finest fresh ingredients handpicked by the owner-chef. Sushi Kurosugi is listed among the Top 100 Sushi Restaurants in the West on Japan’s largest restaurant review website, in both 2021 and 2022.

Allow the knowledgeable staff of the Sushi Dokoro Kurosugi to select the perfect drink to complement your meal from a wide selection of Japanese sake, along with wine and champagne. With its natural wood interior and warm lighting, Sushi Dokoro Kurosugi welcomes you into a tranquil, calm atmosphere.

Sushi Kirimon

At Sushi Kirimon, brace yourself for an extraordinary culinary journey with the renowned “Kiwami Omakase Course” consisting of 20 pieces of sushi priced at 350,000 JPY. This course has been certified by Guinness World Records as the “Most expensive sushi.” Of course, a regular omakase course is available at a more affordable price. Head chef Naoyuki Setta honed his skills at numerous prestigious sushi restaurants, including “Gion Sushi Tadayasu,” which holds one Michelin star, before opening Sushi Kirimon.

With meticulous attention paid to rice and topping temperatures, this is where you can experience exquisite sushi craftsmanship. The head chef has selected the perfect soy sauce from over 150 different varieties and uses different types of wasabi for each sushi to bring out the ultimate flavor.

Sushiya Yohei

To maximize the flavor of the rice and each topping of their sushi, Sushiya Yohei meticulously manages the temperature of ingredients. The condition of each ingredient varies depending on the season and sourcing location, and the restaurant ensures they are maintained at optimal temperatures. Each sushi is served at a precise temperature and timing, allowing the fish fat to melt perfectly. The restaurant offers only an omakase course consisting of 18 pieces of sushi. They pay such close attention to temperature that it is indicated on the menu for each sushi. The interior, reminiscent of a traditional Japanese tea room, welcomes guests into a serene ambience. 

The head chef of Sushi Yohey, Kenji Imanishi, honed his superb cooking skills at the Kyoto branch of Sushi Saeki, a prestigious Edomae (Tokyo-style) sushi restaurant located in the highly competitive area of Ginza, Tokyo. The Tokyo main establishment has been listed among the Top 100 Sushi Restaurants in Tokyo on famous Japanese gourmet website for two consecutive years, starting from 2021.

Sushi Dokoro Shin

The omakase course offered at Sushi Dokoro Shin is comprised of side dishes and nigiri sushi made with seasonal toppings. Carefully selected fresh fish, sourced directly from Kumamoto, along with tuna from Tokyo, are among the ingredients specifically chosen by Sushi Dokoro Shin. They use one of two types of rice depending on the topping to enhance the flavor. This establishment has been listed among the Top 100 Sushi Restaurants in the West on apan’s largest restaurant review website, for two consecutive years, starting from 2021.

About fifteen types of Japanese sake are available to complement your remarkable dining experience, along with carefully selected wines. The ambience, reminiscent of a secret hideout, allows you to relax and fully enjoy your exquisite dining experience.

Sushi Yoshi

1. Michelin (2018 - 2023)：★★

Sushi Yoshi is one of only two sushi restaurants in Osaka awarded two stars in the 2023 Michelin Guide. You're invited to indulge in the omakase course, comprised of elaborate dishes inspired by Western cuisine while still respecting the tradition of Edomae (Tokyo-style) sushi. The remarkable menu variety comes from owner and sushi chef, Hiroki Nakanoue, who traveled to Europe to learn about the food culture abroad.

In addition to Sushi Yoshi in Osaka, they have restaurants in Hong Kong and Taipei. At the Hong Kong eatery, the dish "caviar atop creamy sea urchin and scrambled egg" became a sensational hit. At Sushi Yoshi Osaka, they serve a one-of-a-kind course consisting of Edomae sushi made with ingredients found in Japan but arranged creatively and originally.

Three mid-scale sushi restaurants

We will guide you through mid-scale sushi restaurants that can be enjoyed within a budget of 5,000 JPY to 10,000 JPY.

Sushidokoro Kaihara

1. Michelin Bib Gourmand (2016 - 2023)
2. Sushi WEST Top 100 Selected Restaurants in 2021(on famous Japanese gourmet website)

There’s no better place to visit if you’re craving high-quality sushi at an affordable price. Sushi Dokoro Kaihara has earned a spot in the Bib Gourmand for eight consecutive years, offering unparalleled value for your money. Indulge in their exclusive omakase experience, where the chef guides you through a culinary adventure of creative dishes and sushi, all for under 10,000 JPY. Despite its affordable price tag and counter seating, guests are consistently amazed by its exceptional quality and taste.

The venue features only counter seating, with a serene ambience. Many alcoholic beverages such as Japanese sake, white wine, and champagne are available to complement your meal. Sushi Dokoro Kaihara is a favorite among both locals and overseas visitors alike.

Aka to Shiro

Offering authentic Edomae (Tokyo-style) sushi, Aka to Shiro, which translates to “red and white,” specializes in crafting sushi with Tokyo-style red-vinegared rice for tuna and blue-backed fish, and Kansai-style white-vinegared rice for shrimp and white-fleshed fish. Aka to Shiro has been included in the Bib Gourmand for two consecutive years, providing exceptional value for the price.

The colors red and white hold special significance for Japanese people who see them as colors symbolizing good luck. The collaboration of dishes featuring these colors is served at just the right pace. The venue includes a private room in addition to the counter seating, providing a clean ambiance and accommodating not only solo diners but also groups looking to enjoy a vibrant, colorful dining experience.

Sushi Endo

1. Sushi WEST Top 100 Selected Restaurants in 2021(on famous Japanese gourmet website)

Sushi made with uniquely shaped tender rice called “Tsukami Sushi” is what sets Sushi Endo apart. Established over a century ago, the first chef came up with the idea of shaping the rice ball while the rice is still warm before placing the toppings on so that it perfectly falls apart when placed inside the mouth. Located inside the Osaka Central Wholesale Market, Sushi Endo has been selected among the Top 100 Sushi Restaurants in the West on Japan’s largest restaurant review website, in 2021.

They offer the “Jo-maze” option, consisting of five different pieces of seasonal sushi in four variations. Despite being a long-established sushi restaurant, Sushi Endo maintains a casual, relaxing atmosphere, welcoming guests from all walks of life. They are open from early morning until just past lunchtime in compliance with the market's hours.

Make a reservation

Three budget-friendly sushi restaurants

We will guide you through budget-friendly sushi restaurants that can be enjoyed within a budget of 1,000 JPY to 5,000 JPY. Their casual atmosphere allows for same-day reservation or walk-in service, providing you with the option to enjoy sushi conveniently during your trip.

Harukoma

1. Sushi WEST Top 100 Selected Restaurants in 2021(on famous Japanese gourmet website)

Sushi Harukoma, a sushi restaurant with a 70-year history, attracts patient diners willing to wait in line for a taste of their delicious food. Located along Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street, Japan’s longest shopping street and a highly competitive area for restaurants, Sushi Harukoma offers satisfying sushi made with thick toppings of fresh ingredients, all at a budget-friendly price. This venue was recognized among the Top 100 Sushi Restaurants in the West on Japan’s largest restaurant review website, in 2021. Additionally, it has a branch restaurant a few minutes away with a more spacious dining area.

Sushi Hayata

If you're craving authentic sushi served over the counter at a reasonable price, Sushi Hayata is the place to go. With over 40 years of experience, the owner personally goes to the market every day to carefully select the ingredients. In addition to sushi crafted with masterful skills, you can enjoy dishes such as grilled vegetables, fish, and simmered vegetables, along with local sake from various regions of Japan.

Conveniently located near a hotel, Sushi Hayata attracts many overseas customers. It has received high ratings on Google Maps and TripAdvisor.

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Sushi no 8

If you’re looking to change up your sushi dining experience, Sushi No. 8 is your next destination. Here, you can enjoy everything from regular sushi to meat sushi and even shabu-shabu. Despite its casual atmosphere, the taste of their sushi rivals that of specialty sushi restaurants, and they also serve high-quality Japanese beef (beef that comes from Japanese breeds that meet certain requirements). This venue is popular among overseas guests due to its excellent hospitality and service by English-speaking staff.

Make a reservation